Having two young children is often difficult, but the right stroller can make things a lot easier. Here, we will take a look at some of the things you should consider when finding the perfect stroller for your growing family. We also have reviews of some of the best tandem strollers for infants and toddlers – you’re sure to find something to suit your needs here.
The benefits of having a good double stroller
If you have two young children, a double stroller is a lifesaver. Even if your older child walks sometimes, there will always be times when they get tired, or you need to get somewhere in a hurry. Twin strollers are also great for when you are out in a busy environment – you don’t need to worry about your toddler running off or getting lost. They’re also ideal for those times when you have a lot to carry – which is often the case with two little ones! They usually have a lot of storage space, perfect for diaper bags, toys and shopping bags.
Considerations when finding the best stroller for siblings
The main consideration should be safety and practicality. You should choose a stroller with secure harnesses for both children, ideally a 5-point harness. You should also look for a stroller which has seating options to suit both children. Some strollers aren’t suitable for newborns if they don’t have reclining seats, so this is something to keep in mind if the stroller will be used from birth. Also make sure it is large enough for the older child to sit comfortably – and think about how long you will be using the stroller for.
Choosing between double strollers
There are loads of different types of twin stroller, so it can be quite difficult to choose between them. If buying for two siblings, rather than twins, it’s definitely a good idea to choose a model which offers different modes of seating and travel for children of different ages. We also recommend going with a well-known brand. Although they might be more expensive, you know the quality will be excellent and the stroller will last for many years.
You should compare the features of different models and decide what is most important for you. Any stroller will probably have its pros and cons – you are unlikely to find something which meets all the requirements you have. But, by doing some research and deciding what are the most important factors for you, you’re sure to find your dream stroller.
Must have Features
It’s essential to choose something with plenty storage space if you will be using the stroller every day. You know how much ‘stuff’ babies and toddlers need on a day out! You should also choose a stroller with changeable seating arrangements, to ensure it is suitable for your growing children. Strollers which can accommodate infant car seat, can be parent-facing or have fully reclining seats or carrycots for young babies are a good idea.
You might also like to consider a stroller on which one seat can be fully removed, so your older child can stand on as they get older. Some tandem strollers can be quite large, even when folded, so if you have a small car or home, you might like to choose something more compact. One-handed folding is also great for when you are trying to keep hold of two young kids!
Things to avoid in 2018
It’s definitely a good idea to avoid anything which is too heavy or bulky, especially if you will often be taking the stroller in a car. If mom will be out alone, lifting a heavy stroller into the trunk can be difficult, and dangerous shortly after giving birth. We recommend trying out a few different strollers so you can get a feel for what might suit you. Some strollers can be difficult to handle, especially with two growing kids sitting inside!
UPPAbaby Vista with Rumble Seat
The Uppababy Vista stroller is ideal for families with two young children of different ages, although it also works well for twins. It comes with two seats and an infant bassinet, and can be adapted to take one or two baby car seats too. There are a huge number of seating combinations with this stroller, and the seats can be forward or parent-facing.
The Uppababy rumble seat is comfortable for children of all ages, even growing toddlers. The seat can recline for nap time, and features a secure five-point safety harness. The Uppababy Vista double has an easy, one step fold which is perfect for when parents are alone with two children! The stroller comes in a choice of beautiful, classic colors, including indigo and black. If you will be using the stroller with a car safety seat, it’s important to check which adapters you will need. There are both upper and lower adapters available separately, so check you have everything you need in order to use the stroller straight away.
Graco Ready2grow LX Stroller
This Graco twin stroller is ideal for families with a young baby as well as a toddler. It has over 10 different seating combinations, meaning it is perfect for growing children. The back seat is parent facing, allowing you to interact with your child, and an infant car seat can be used in either the front or rear position, or both if you have twins or two young babies! The Graco click connect travel system has a rear seat which is removable to give access to a standing platform and a bench seat for older children. The bench seat lifts to give easy access to the large storage basket underneath. The front seat comes with a removable child tray, allowing the child to have somewhere to keep their snacks and drinks.
The Graco double stroller is sure to provide years of usage, as the front seat and bench seat can hold children up to 50 pounds. The back seat can hold children up to 40 pounds. The stroller can be folded using one hand, and stands once folded. Each seat has its own canopy to keep children shaded from the sun at all times. The Graco Ready2Grow has swivel wheels mean the stroller has great maneuverability, and there is also built-in suspension for a smooth and comfortable ride.
Baby Trend Sit and Stand Double Stroller
The Baby Trend travel system is the ideal stroller and car seat combo for families with two young children. It has a wide range of seating combinations, and can be used with an infant car seat for maximum flexibility. For older children, the rear seat can be removed allowing the standing platform to be used. For parents, the Baby Trend Sit N Stand features a covered parent tray, which includes cup holders and space for keys and a cellphone.
JOOVY Stand On Stroller
The Joovy Caboose is one of the lightest double strollers on the market, weighing just 23 pounds. Both the front and rear seats can hold children weighing up to 45 pounds, meaning it is sure to give years of use to growing families. The rear seat is removable and underneath there is a bench seat and a standing platform. This is great for taller children who struggle to fit into regular stroller seats.
Final Thoughts and Our Conclusion
The Graco stroller stands out as being one of the most flexible in terms of the number of different seating possibilities it offers. The stroller can be used from birth, and will last well into the toddler years. It also has a great amount of storage, making it perfect for outings with the whole family. The stroller also doubles as a travel system, which is great for in the early months when baby spends a lot of time sleeping – they can easily be transferred from the car without being disturbed!
